Windshield replacement time.

[MadHatter53]

I’m finally getting around to replacing my stbd windshield which was broken by a clamshell which was dropped by a seagull. I need to order the laminate glass and somehow failed to get a better or exact measurement. I figure that the mid 80’s 53my’s all have the same size glass so if anyone can help I would appreciate it greatly. I’m also thinking of going with the tinted (solas) vs clear and any thoughts are welcome. I have read through the replacement procedure and seems very straightforward but any tips would also be appreciated. The frames are painted black and trim is too so I plan to use some type of black sealant to fill the voids. I plan on doing all three but want to do this one to get a better understanding of replacement. I also noticed the the center glass appears square but the port and stbd look kinda angled. That might just be the frame and how it’s laid out.

 

[SKYCHENEY]

Solex tint is the original "green" glass. I'm not familiar with Solas

 

[MadHatter53]

Yeah sky thanks for the correction.

 

[Sadey]

Our windows were in need of replacement as well. We also had water leaks from around the frames so we pulled all three pilot house windows out to replace the glass and re-bed the frames. Might be worth your while to do the same. If they aren’t leaking now they probably will at some point. That and you can get an exact fit glazing cut. Our glass guy removed the glass, cut and re-bed the glass for us. We also added ceramic tint while the frames were out, what a difference it makes in heat reduction.

 

[MadHatter53]

I’ll probably do the same while I have things apart. What caulking did you use?

 

[Sadey]

Sika 295UV for the frames to super structure.

 

[bostonhatteras]

I’ll probably do the same while I have things apart. What caulking did you use?

Hell of a lot easier installing the glass vertically into the frames than trying to go horizontal and at an angle. Glass clamps are a must especially if youre laying on to butyl tape.

 

[MadHatter53]

My plans are to pull the glass then the frames redo the frame seals then pop the new glass in and seal everything up nice and tight. What’s these glass clamps you mentioned BH ? I do plan on using the butyl then finish up with some sika. I do have some corner leaks on both lower corners of stbd and center windshields.

 

[whoover]

My plans are to pull the glass then the frames redo the frame seals then pop the new glass in and seal everything up nice and tight. What’s these glass clamps you mentioned BH ? I do plan on using the butyl then finish up with some sika. I do have some corner leaks on both lower corners of stbd and center windshields.

The suction cups for lifting the glass maybe. I second the butyl tape, it makes putting the frames back in so much easier. Do you have an inside trim piece also? I wrapped my openings with an adhesive window flashing to prevent core damage from leaks, the trim covers it all when finished.

Walt Hoover

 

[MadHatter53]

Walt I have wood trim inside but you can see the frame from inside also. Do you remember what the product was you used?

 

[Sadey]

In the picture above, your windows will lift out without disturbing the wood trim on the inside. It’s also the perfect time to clean up the water damage to that inside trim.

 

[MadHatter53]

good idea Dave. I’m planning to do all three but one at a time our weather has been unpredictable so I’ll have a tarp handy if needed.

 

[whoover]

I got it Home Depot. It's in a roll about 6" wide. I don't think it was a blue skin product. It is fairly thin so there is still some space around the frame. It sticks to everything, I trimmed it after frame install but should have done it first so there was less clean up. I didnt have any core damage but this just gave me another layer of protection.

Walt Hoover

 

[Sadey]

That stuff is horrible to work with in that you will find it in places you swear you’ve never touched. Fighting the weather might be better then doing it on the hard. We did it on the hard and had to do a fair amount of sanding to fit the frames back in the hole. I’m sure it was the flexing that takes place on jack stands. Hope it all goes well!

 

[MadHatter53]

What thickness butyl tape ? Sam’s has 1/4” not sure if it’s wide or thick.

 

[whoover]

The tape I used was 3/4" wide and 1/8" thick.

Walt Hoover

 

[MadHatter53]

Thanks Walt.

 

[whoover]

I was doing mine at the beginning of one of our many covid lockdowns so I think I was able to get it from Amazon.
Walt Hoover